Health Monitoring

The PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking) holds the primary duty of care under

health and safety legislation, requiring them to ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, the

health and safety of workers and others affected by their work. This includes providing and

maintaining a work environment that is safe and without risks to health.

Health monitoring is a critical component of fulfilling this duty of care. It involves the

systematic surveillance of workers’ health to identify early signs of work-related illness or

exposure to hazards. PCBUs must implement appropriate health monitoring procedures where

risks to health cannot be adequately controlled by other means. This may include regular

medical examinations, biological monitoring, or other health assessments tailored to the specific

hazards in the workplace.

Effective health monitoring helps in early detection and prevention of occupational diseases,

ensuring timely intervention and support for workers, and verifying the effectiveness of control

measures. By actively managing and monitoring health risks, PCBUs demonstrate compliance

with their legal obligations and promote a safer, healthier workplace environment.

Health monitoring involves medical testing to detect early signs of work-related health issues; it includes the following assessments:

- Spirometry, lung function test

- Chemical and solvent exposure assessment

- Hearing test and ear health

- Vision screening

- Musculoskeletal assessment, Grip testing 

- Wellbeing and fatigue assessment 

With the option to add a Healthy Hearts assessment: A heart risk check is done using New Zealand Heart Foundation rules. The results are private and not shared with your employer unless you agree.

Sharing may happen if follow-up checks need employer support or time off work. The check looks at:

- Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar

- Family history of heart problems

- Lifestyle habits

These factors help calculate a heart attack or stroke risk score. The results are explained, along with advice on how to lower the risk and useful information. 

Benefits of Health Monitoring for a Staff Member of a Company

- Early Detection of Health Issues: Health monitoring helps identify potential health problems at an early stage, allowing for timely intervention and reducing the risk of serious illness.

- Increased Productivity: Healthy employees tend to have higher energy levels and better focus, resulting in improved productivity and work quality.

- Reduced Absenteeism: Proactive health management can lead to fewer sick days, minimizing disruptions and maintaining workflow continuity.

- Enhanced Workplace Safety: Monitoring health ensures that employees are fit for duty, reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by health-related impairments.

- Compliance with Health and Safety Regulations: Regular health assessments help companies comply with legal requirements and occupational health standards.

- Lower Healthcare Costs: Preventative health monitoring can reduce long-term healthcare expenses for the company by minimizing serious illnesses and associated treatment costs.

Benefits of Health Monitoring for the Employee

- Improved Personal Health: Employees receive regular health check-ups that can lead to early diagnosis and management of health conditions.

- Increased Awareness of Health Status: Health monitoring encourages employees to stay informed about their physical well-being, fostering healthier lifestyle choices.

- Access to Support and Resources: Employees are more likely to receive appropriate medical referrals and wellness resources based on monitoring outcomes.

- Job Security and Satisfaction: Health monitoring can contribute to a safer work environment, enhancing employee confidence and job satisfaction.

- Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Knowing that health is being monitored and supported by the employer can alleviate concerns about workplace-related health risks.

- Promotion of Work-Life Balance: Early intervention in health issues can prevent long-term illness, helping employees maintain a better balance between work and personal life.

Your Rights & Responsibilities

You may be required to take part in health monitoring under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, but you must also give informed consent. If you have concerns about testing or providing results, speak

with your manager or health and safety rep. Refusing to participate may lead to employment or contractual issues depending on your work arrangement.

Privacy & Results

Your personal results are confidential and will be explained to you by the nurse. Your employer receives a summary report showing who was monitored and what was tested. If your results are outside the

normal range, your employer is notified only of that specific issue, not your full results. All records are stored securely for 40 years, as required by law.

Legal Compliance

Monitoring is carried out in line with:

- Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016

- Records are retained for 30–40 years depending on the hazard (e.g. asbestos vs. other exposures)

- All reports are anonymised unless required otherwise.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to speak with the Engage Safety Registered Nurse during your appointment. For more information about Health Monitoring, you can visit: Health and exposure

monitoring | WorkSafe